Noni always tries to do the right thing. But she doesn't know how to help her classmate Hector, who is constantly bullied for his name, his size and his giant glasses. Noni stands by silently, afraid that the kids will turn on her if she speaks up. Yet "doing nothing" doesn't feel very good. Will Noni be brave enough to take matters into her own hands?

Heather Hartt-Sussman's charming story, complemented by the playful, expressive illustrations of Geneviève Côté, is a heartwarming exploration of conquering fear and finding the courage to help others.

Heather Hartt-Sussman graduated from Brandeis University and attended the Sorbonne. She has been a copywriter for BCP in Montreal, a reporter for the Hollywood Reporter, editor-in-chief for international news for TV Guide in French Canada, where she was columnist of the popular “Heather Hartt in Hollywood,” and host of E! Entertainment Television’s The Gossip Show. She is the author of the acclaimed Nana’s Getting Married trilogy and the Noni series. Noni Is Nervous was an Editors’ Choice book in the New York Times Sunday Book Review. Her books have been nominated for Blue Spruce and Shining Willow Awards. She lives in Toronto.

Geneviève Côté has illustrated a number of children’s books, including The Lady of Shalott, by Tennyson, La petite rapporteuse de mots, by Danielle Simard, and her own Me and You, What Elephant? and With You, Always, Little Monday. Her editorial art has appeared in TheNew York Times, The Wall Street Journal, l’Actualité and other such publications. She has won several honors, including the Elisabeth Mrazik-Cleaver Award in 2005 and the General Governor’s Award for Illustration in 2007. She lives in Montreal, Quebec. Visit her at www.genevievecoteillustration.com.

Heather Hartt-Sussman, born in Montreal, graduated from Brandeis University and attended the Sorbonne. She has been a copywriter for BCP in Montreal, a reporter for the Hollywood Reporter, editor-in-chief for international news for TV Guide in French Canada, where she was columnist of the popular "Heather Hartt in Hollywood" and host of E! Entertainment Television's The Gossip Show. She is author of the acclaimed picture books Nana's Getting Married, Here Comes Hortense! and Nana's Summer Surprise. Her first two books about Noni, Noni Says No and Noni Is Nervous, were both finalists for Ontario's Blue Spruce Award. Heather Hartt-Sussman lives in Toronto. Visit her website at www.heatherhartt.com. The author lives in Toronto, Ontario.

"The impressionistic illustrations perfectly convey Noni's emotions .... This book could generate good discussion about standing up for one's self and handling difficult relationships, including ways to establish and maintain friendships when everyone involved has a chance to react honestly and without fear." - School Library Journal

“Noni Speaks Up would be particularly useful for parents and teachers as a read-aloud. Young readers could participate in a shared reading experience or could dramatize the story by taking on the roles of the characters in the story. They could also discuss what happens after the picture book ends. The story will provide the basis for lively discussion with parents. caregivers or teachers on topics such as bullying, peer pressure, friendship, responsibility and caring for others.” - CM Magazine

“.... this tale shines a beacon of light on the issue [of bullying] .... Noni gives children the courage to speak out against bullying .... Cote’s always charming illustrations support the theme with zest and humour.” - Resource Links